We are trying to implement the new guidelines. How do they apply to residents who had side rails before April 1?
Reply: This answer refers to the checklist for Implementation of the Interim Guidelines which is found on our web site.: If the bed rails were installed prior to April 1, 2001: Section I Documentation of Offer, Informed Consent, and Physician Order Items 4, 5, 6 will apply, as these are HCFA requirements which existed before the Interim Guidelines. Section II Documentation of Initial Bed Rail Design and Installation All items will apply. Section III Documentation of Monitoring the Use of the Bed Rail Items 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 will apply. Section IV. Documentation of Education for Nursing and Other Direct Care Staff Will apply because training of all current staff was to be scheduled by April 1, 2001 and it was to be completed by April 30, 2001. Section V. Documentation of Education and Training for Maintenance and Environmental Services Staff Will apply because training of all current staff was to be scheduled by April 1, 2001 and it was to be completed by April 30, 2001. Question: We are wo
